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Dry Martini

dry martini cocktail with bottles of ingredients at the background

A Dry Martini is not just a drink; it’s an experience. As a bartender who has mixed countless cocktails, I have a soft spot for this timeless classic. It’s elegant, simple, and has a sophistication that few other drinks can match. Whether you’re unwinding after a long day or celebrating a special occasion, a Dry Martini always feels just right.

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Tasting Notes

A Dry Martini has a clean, crisp taste with a hint of botanicals from the gin or vodka. The dry vermouth adds a subtle herbal note that complements the gin perfectly. The olive or lemon twist garnish brings a slight brininess or citrusy brightness, making every sip smooth and refreshing.

Equipment and Glassware

To make a Dry Martini, you’ll need a mixing glass, a bar spoon, a strainer, and a chilled martini glass. The martini glass, with its iconic shape, enhances the drinking experience, making each sip feel special.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz Gin or Vodka
  • 1/2 oz Dry Vermouth
  • Olive or Lemon Twist for garnish

Instructions

  1. Fill your mixing glass with ice.
  2. Pour the gin and dry vermouth over the ice.
  3. Stir well for about 30 seconds to chill the mixture without diluting it too much.
  4. Strain the mix into your chilled martini glass.
  5. Garnish with an olive or a lemon twist.

Pro Tips

  • Always chill your martini glass beforehand to keep your drink colder longer.
  • Experiment with the ratio of gin to vermouth to find your perfect balance.
  • Use fresh ice to avoid watered-down flavors.
See also  13 Top Shelf Gins to Try

When to Serve

A Dry Martini is perfect for almost any occasion. It’s a hit at formal events, a quiet night in, or when you’re looking to impress with your bartending skills. It’s versatile and always in style.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

For a top-notch Dry Martini, go for high-quality gin like Tanqueray, Bombay Sapphire, or Hendrick’s. Vodkas like grey Goose or Belvedere. Your choice of dry vermouth is also crucial; Noilly Prat or Dolin are excellent options that blend beautifully with gin.

Similar Cocktails

  1. Dirty Martini: Add olive brine for a salty twist.
  2. Gibson: Replace the olive or lemon twist with a cocktail onion.
  3. French Martini: Includes vodka, pineapple juice, and raspberry liqueur for a fruity twist.
  4. Manhattan: A whiskey-based cousin with sweet vermouth and bitters.

History

The Dry Martini has a storied history, evolving from the Martinez cocktail in the late 1800s to the streamlined version we love today. It epitomizes the golden age of cocktails, symbolizing refinement and sophistication.

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dry martini cocktail with bottles of ingredients at the background

Dry Martini

Prep Time: 3 minutes
Total Time: 3 minutes
4.7 from 3 votes
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American
Keyword: dry martini, dry vermouth, Gin, vermouth, Vodka
Servings: 1
Author: Paul Kushner
The Dry Martini, combines gin and vermouth and is often garnished with olives or a lemon twist. Cheers to enjoying this simple yet sophisticated cocktail.

Instructions

  • Chill your glass: Place your martini glass in the freezer for at least 10 minutes before you start making your drink. This will help keep your drink cold.
  • Combine your ingredients: Fill a mixing glass or cocktail shaker with ice. Add 2 1/2 ounces of gin and 1/2 ounce of dry vermouth. Stir or shake until well chilled.
  • Strain into your glass: Remove your chilled glass from the freezer and strain your martini into it. You can garnish your drink with a lemon twist or an olive, depending on your preference.
  • Enjoy: Sip your martini slowly and savor the flavors.

Notes

If you prefer a wetter martini, simply add more dry vermouth to your drink. For a dirty martini, add a splash of olive brine to the mix. And if you're feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different types of gin or vermouth to find your perfect combination.
Tried this recipe?Leave a comment and let us know how it was!
Dry Martini
Please drink responsibly, be fully accountable with your alcohol consumption, and show others respect.
4.67 from 3 votes (3 ratings without comment)

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Paul Kushner

Written by Paul Kushner

Founder and CEO of MyBartender. Graduated from Penn State University. He always had a deep interest in the restaurant and bar industry. His restaurant experience began in 1997 at the age of 14 as a bus boy. By the time he turned 17 he was serving tables, and by 19 he was bartending/bar managing 6-7 nights a week.

In 2012, after a decade and a half of learning all facets of the industry, Paul opened his first restaurant/bar. In 2015, a second location followed, the latter being featured on The Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.

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